Hello Dear Family and Friends, Thank you for visiting this site. I have visited CaringBridge many times for others who travelled through a health challenge, and am grateful that Tom and I can now use this social media platform to share our journey while still maintaining some control over how the story gets told and shared.
I have always considered myself to be a healthy person in body, mind and spirit so I was pretty shaken by this recent diagnosis. Tom and I have entered a new reality, with biopsies, PET scans, prescriptions and treatment plans. There is no looking back, no second guessing only looking forward to claim vitality, health and wholeness, realize a cancer free body and become stronger from this experience. I also believe in the power of prayer, and I believe in healing our conditions through affirmative prayer treatment. It is my core belief and the foundation on which I live and serve others. My prayer team was the first in place. I am incredibly blessed and eternally grateful. They are also working with me and my medical health team.
I discovered a lump in my left breast shortly before Dad made his transition. In the midst of grief, I made an appointment for a well-woman check up, but had to reschedule when Tom's Mom showed signs of making her transition. This summer was a blur. We flew to NY for the funeral, and upon our return, I finally saw a Doctor on August 28. My Doctor sent me for a mammogram and an ultrasound, and the radiologist suggested a biopsy. The biopsy was done on 9/11 and during that visit, the Doctor indicated that the mass was suspicious. I did not receive an official diagnosis until 9/17. A "cancer journey " was underway. I met with a breast surgeon, and an oncologist who work together as a comprehensive team. They reviewed the pathology reports and together we have determined the best course of treatment for me. I've had a PET scan, an Echocardiogram, and tomorrow I am having a port implanted in my chest so I can begin chemo therapy. Tom and I are taking each step as it comes.
The diagnosis is Invasive Ductile Carcinoma stage 2 B. The PET results indicate the cancer has spread into my underarm, but has not metastasized into the lymph glands or my other organs, The mass is 5cm X 4.5cm. The prognosis is curative. The initial stage of my treatment begins on 10/23 with a 2 prong -6 month chemo regimen. I will lose all of my hair. My wellness team and I will then determine if additional treatment is needed. (More on this later). I have also been referred to a clinical research study through ASU that will monitor the effects of exercise on potentially reducing the damage of chemotherapy drugs on my heart.
I am grateful for all the prayers and well wishes I receive daily! I sincerely want to connect with all of you...my friends and family who are concerned about my well being. Right now it's difficult to talk about, and everyday has been filled to overflowing with the business of this new journey. I know you want to know what's going on, so this is my first entry. I (or one of my elves) will update this as we progress to the cure. Please keep your texts and cards and e-mails coming. I will respond as time permits.
I've had the opportunity to talk with and hear from strong amazing women who've faced similar cancer diagnosis. Thank you for your insightful words and prayers, you are powerful examples of the positive results I expect. With hugs and love, here we go!
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Lori Stay Connected to Family and Friends
A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Lori's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?
